5 Ways To Entertain Your Wedding Guests When They Don’t Want to Dance
As a live illustrator for weddings, I have - unsurprisingly - been to a lot of weddings! And do you want to know something surprising I’ve seen? The best weddings I’ve been to provide entertainment for the guests outside of the dance floor.
Most wedding receptions are between four and six hours. Even if your guests love to party, they’ll need to rest their feet at some point. And sometimes, your guests just aren’t the dancing type. In that case, what do you do to entertain them? Here is a list of my absolute favorite things I’ve seen that can make your wedding fun and memorable for your guests!
Cocktail and Coffee Bars
Nothing encourages mingling more than cocktails and coffee! Many couples highlight their favorite drinks during their wedding reception. Guests can then experience the couple’s favorite flavors and enjoy some downtime while they sip their drinks. (Did you know I offer signage for specialty menu items just like this?)
Bounce House & Yard Games
Maybe you read that and thought it sounds like a kid’s birthday party, but don’t rule it out too fast! Lately, couples have been embracing whimsy and encouraging their guests to let loose in creative ways. And just because they started as a kids activity doesn't mean they have to stay that way. You’d be surprised how many adults love jumping around on a bounce house! Plus, this allows you to fully utilize the outdoor space at your venue. I can’t think of a better use of space than with a bouncy house and some yard games. (Think: corn hole, horseshoes, ladder golf, giant jenga, and bocce ball!)
Cigar Lounge
Looking for a way to encourage guests to slow down and get to know each other? Consider adding a cigar lounge! These quieter rooms are a great place for guests to escape from the loud music and experience something truly unique. You can even allow guests to roll their own cigars! This is another unique guest activity that gives them a keepsake as well.
Hire a Portrait Photographer
I’m sure you’ve been to lots of weddings with a photobooth. But what if you could have a portrait photographer, instead? You can create a beautiful little corner where guests can go for a professional portrait with their partner, friends, or family. This is a creative way to elevate a photobooth experience and give your guests something to do during the reception.
Hire a Live Wedding Illustrator
You must have known this one was coming! Live wedding illustration is one of the most unique things you can add to your wedding reception. Whether your guests swing by for a portrait between songs or take more time to watch their sketch come to life, everyone enjoys having a special keepsake!
Take it from one of my previous brides, Jasmine:
”Samantha is incredibly talented and brought something so special and unique to our wedding. We’d been interested in some sort of interactive experience at our wedding. Our friends and family were so surprised and pleased with Samantha’s sketches. They’ve been circulating them around and showing them off for weeks after the wedding. We had a few guests who didn’t dance who loved having the chance to chat with Samantha and watch her draw the sketches, which made them feel engaged, entertained, and part of the wedding. Everything came out amazing, and this has been one of the most complimented aspects of our wedding in the weeks that followed!”
No matter what kind of wedding you’re planning, live illustration can be an exciting addition for your guests. Do you have questions about adding this service to your wedding day? Reach out! I would love to chat with you and find the best way to create memorable experiences for your guests.
